"Republican U.S. Senate candidate Rand Paul backtracked Thursday on his pledge to erase the federal budget deficit in a year, instead offering several options that he said could get it done within five." [Bluegrass Politics]

"State Agriculture Commissioner Richie Farmer said Thursday he has not ruled out a bid for governor next year but that his 'dream job' would be athletics director at the University of Kentucky. In recent weeks, Farmer has been mentioned as a possible candidate for lieutenant governor in 2011 on a slate with Senate President David Williams, R-Burkesville." [Bluegrass Politics]

"While most of state government is buying fewer vehicles because of budget cuts, Agriculture Commissioner Richie Farmer has spent about $445,000 on 19 new vehicles for his department this year, including a $35,340 Chevy Suburban for his own use. Farmer drove his previous state vehicle for 30 months, so he was due for a replacement in January, said spokesman Bill Clary." [Lexington Herald-Leader]